The Daily Elena

On March 26th I defended my dissertation and officially became Dr. Calderon Sandoval, PhD in Higher Education! In this episode I share more about what this experience was like, from the prep a month before, the week of, and the actual day! My husband, Eduardo, is the host of this episode.

In this episode, I talk about a book I read in January, " Illegalized: Undocumented Youth Movements" and reflect on UndocuJoy. I also share a recap of my December trip to Mexico and a check-in on my PhD journey. Shownotes: Cumbiaton Movement https://wearemitu.com/crema/cumbiaton-lgbtq/   Book: Illegalized: Undocumented Youth Movements in the United States https://uapress.arizona.edu/book...

En este episodio, comparto una historia de mi blog, donde reflexiono sobre mi primera vez visitando a Michoacán después de 25 años. Este episodio se trata de un reencuentro con mis raíces, con mi gente, y conmigo misma. Recursos: Blog Un Dia En El Rancho Cuando La Noche Se Nos Viene Encima El Regreso Del Colibri

In this episode of The Daily Elena , I’m flipping the mic around to reflect on a year of podcasting as a first-gen storyteller. From embracing vulnerability to staying organized, learning on the go, and simply taking the leap, here are 10 takeaways I’ve gathered from a whole year of podcasting. Whether you're thinking of starting your own podcast or just love a good first-gen reflection, this...

Would you spend $300 on a suit for your first big job interview-and still not get the job?! Because that's exactly what I did when I first ventured out into the job-search process.

In part 3 of this series we learn more about Emiliano's first-gen professional experience, and he shares tools that help him with learning and succeeding in his job.

Mi primer episodio en Español. En este episodio les comparto un poema que fue inspirado por mi familia.

Being a first-gen college grad means figuring out how we can continue to advocate for issues we're passionate about-such as immigration, while holding full-time roles. Learn about some of the challenges I faced with this.

In this episode I share some of the challenges of 2024, including leaving a job that was harming my mental health and well-being, and I also share a highlight with how my year ended!

In part 2 of this series we learn more about how Emiliano's family immigrated to the US, his experiences in school and the military, and the importance of having the courage to push through challenges.

Listen to this bonus episode to hear a special message of kindness from my 9 year old niece, Ally. We recorded this message in October when I was visiting my family in Washington.

I'm in Washington for the weekend & my 10 year old nephew wanted to share a special message about being grateful! He also edited this episode!

Emiliano Santiago is a Senior Electrical Engineer at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. As an immigrant from San Juan Mixtepec, Oaxaca, Mexico, and a U.S. Army Veteran, he leverages his unique experiences to positively impact the world around him. Listen to part 1 of his story today!

Meet Dra. Mara Lopez! It took Dra. Mara almost 12 years to finish her bachelors degree and she is a trailblazer in so many ways for pushing through education, going on to get her master’s degree, and also obtaining a doctoral degree. She is fueled by family and community. Tune in to hear her story.

Listen to these 10 tips that have helped me out as a first-gen PhD College Student!

Learn from Adilene Sandoval and hear about the importance of rest, making brave choices like going out-of-state for college and traveling the world, and the importance of sustainability and caring for the land.

In this episode you'll learn about the mentors who have made a difference in my educational journey and hear about how I stayed motivated to apply to a PhD program.

Learn some tips to update your resume, and hear some advice from our listeners about what they wish they knew before they started their first job.

In this episode you'll hear from my 11-year old niece, Jayleen, about the importance of doing hobbies you enjoy, taking a break, and getting back up when you're ready!

In this episode I reflect on my experience with finding the right job, and share tips for interviewing and learning how to interview the employer too!

Meet Criselia, proud first-generation college graduate, DACA recipient, recipient of Advanced Parole, and my sister! Criselia is a strong advocate for higher education and immigrant rights.

My word of the year is fearless. It helped me get this podcast going! What's your word of the year?

Learn about Eduardo Ramos and his journey towards higher education, military career, overcoming barriers in the workplace, and his pillars of success for thriving as a first-generation college graduate and professional.

I had always wanted to have a podcast, but I didn't know what I would name it. The Daily Elena perfectly captures the storytelling nature of my podcast.

Welcome, bienvenidos to The Daily Elena, a podcast where I’ll be sharing stories of people who are first-generation in the United States, in college, or in the workforce…Spaces where being first-generation can be both difficult and exciting to navigate.  In this first episode I'll share a little of my own story and upbringing as an immigrant in the United States.